Former Napier CIB detective Brian 'Schaaby' Schaab was given a full police send off at the conclusion of the celebration of his life held at the Napier Sailing Club today.
Mr Schaab, who served 44 years in the police, died last week at the age of 66 after a long battle with cancer and his colleagues, those still serving and those like him who had retired for the service, turned out to pay tribute.
A police guard of honour was formed at the conclusion and the bagpipes sounded.
Mr Schaab, who was a great fan of Elvis Presley, was carried from the service to the sound of Elvis singing 'Danny Boy'.
It was estimated more than 400 people were at the service, packing out the venue, and there were laughs and there were tears as his colourful life, and his devotion to duty and his family, was told.
His family spoke - among them his son Cameron who is now a police officer himself.